Most people drop sunscreen from their routine when the rains arrive. It seems logical. Afterall, monsoon season means reduced sun exposure, so less UV damage. But this assumption is the biggest myth.

Monsoon weather can still make your skin vulnerable to UV damage, which might be hard to believe. You may end up with pigmentation and skin barrier problems. It is essential that you use Sunscreen SPF 50 during the monsoon season to maintain healthy skin year-round.

You may ask, should I apply sunscreen in monsoon? Absolutely. This guide explains why it is necessary to use sunscreen in monsoon. 

Why Sunscreen Is Important in Monsoon

Clouds do not block UV radiation the way you might assume they do. According to dermatological studies, up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate through clouds. It means your skin gets UV exposure on rainy days, too.

1. UVA Rays Are Present All Year

UVB rays are responsible for sunburn, but their intensity fluctuates with the seasons. However, UVA rays remain constant throughout the year, including the monsoon. These rays penetrate deeper into the skin, damaging collagen and elastin. It accelerates premature ageing, pigmentation, and loss of firmness.

2. High Humidity Weakens the Skin Barrier

Humidity in the monsoon disrupts the skin’s natural lipid barrier. The skin becomes more susceptible to many problems when this barrier is compromised.

- UV-induced inflammation.
- Sensitivity and redness.
- Pigmentation flare-ups.

So, wearing monsoon sunscreen daily is more important than in dry weather. Opt for a sunscreen for dry skin for best results. For oily skin, a gel sunscreen for oily skin works better because it absorbs quickly and does not feel heavy in humid weather.

3. Indoor Exposure Still Matters

UVA rays pass through glass, even if you spend most of your day indoors during the rain. Add prolonged screen exposure (blue light), and your skin still needs protection.

Therefore, dermatologists stress the importance of sunscreen regardless of weather or location.

Benefits of Using Sunscreen in the Rainy Season

A broad-spectrum, lightweight sunscreen offers multiple benefits for your skin, not just prevention against tanning.

1. Protects Against Pigmentation

Humidity can increase oil production, leading to acne and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Sunscreen prevents melanin production caused by UV exposure, which helps limit dark spots.

2. Preserves Skin Barrier Health

A good sunscreen forms a protective layer against pollution, moisture loss, and environmental stressors. These are common during the rainy season.

3. Prevents Premature Ageing

Let’s understand the importance of SPF. Consistent SPF use prevents collagen breakdown caused by UVA exposure, giving you a younger look.

4. Reduces Risk of “Monsoon Acne”

Using a non-comedogenic sunscreen for oily skin can give you UV protection without clogging your pores. It is essential for acne-prone and oily skin types.

How to Choose the Right Sunscreen in Monsoon

The biggest reason people avoid sunscreen in the rainy season is discomfort from stickiness, heaviness, or breakouts. Choosing the right formula solves this problem completely.

How to Use Sunscreen During Monsoon?

Any skincare product requires you to use it in the right manner to get the maximum benefits out of it. Even the best products fail to deliver results if you do not use them correctly, and sunscreen is no different. 

Step-by-Step Application

1. Cleanse first: Start with a gentle cleanser to remove sweat, oil, and pollution.
2. Apply an adequate amount: Use the two-finger rule, two full strips for face and neck.
3. Apply before stepping out: Allow sunscreen to form a protective layer by applying it 15–20 minutes before going out.
4. Cover exposed areas: Don’t skip ears, neck, hands, and feet.
5. Reapply regularly: Apply every 2–3 hours if you are outdoors or get wet.

Makeup Tip

Let the sunscreen fully absorb before applying makeup. SPF sprays or powders work well for touch-ups without disturbing your base.

Applying the sunscreen correctly is just as important as choosing the right SPF.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Monsoon

The following errors are common while using the sunscreen.

1. Assuming UV exposure is low on rainy days, so skipping sunscreen.
2. Not applying it again after sweating or rain.
3. Using heavy, creamy formulas that clog pores in humidity.
4. Applying only to the face, ignoring the neck, ears, and hands.
5. Replacing moisturiser with sunscreen, leading to barrier dehydration.

Avoiding these mistakes will ensure your sunscreen works throughout the monsoon season.

Conclusion

Monsoon weather does not eliminate UV damage. So, daily sunscreen use during the rainy season is essential to protect against UVA exposure, pigmentation, premature ageing, and barrier damage.

A lightweight and non-comedogenic sunscreen can protect your skin and keep it healthy. Sunscreen is non-negotiable when it comes to caring for your skin, no matter the season.

Whether you are fighting dullness, enlarged pores or active acne – a potent AHA BHA serum can guarantee visible results for your skin. This formulation helps dissolve dirt, dead cells and debris (or any kind of buildup possible) to ensure a clean, bright surface that is shy of texture. 

Still wondering whether to add an AHA BHA-based serum into your routine? You have landed on the right page. This blog introduces you to skincare acids (Alpha Hydroxy Acid and Beta Hydroxy Acids), lists their many benefits and busts the myths surrounding their use. 

What Are AHAs?  

AHA (or Alpha Hydroxy Acids) are active ingredients that slough off your skin’s outermost layer. You can use these acids to improve your skin’s texture, fight ageing lines and fade dark spots. Some of the most common AHAs are Glycolic Acid and Lactic Acid.  

Glycolic Acid: Glycolic Acid boasts small molecules, making it easier for the ingredient to pass through the lipid barrier. 

What Are BHAs?  

BHA or Beta Hydroxy Acids are ingredients that dislodge buildup from deep inside the pores. These actives are oil soluble unlike their counterparts a.k.a. AHAs. Some of the most popular BHAs are Salicylic Acid, Tropic Acid and so forth. 

Salicylic Acid: The oil-soluble active possesses anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and astringent properties. 

The Best AHA BHA Serum 

Naturally, an Aha Bha serum braces you with the best of both worlds, targeting numerous skin concerns. If you believe your skin deserves the best (like we do), try Foxtale’s AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum for your skincare rotation. The innovative, gentle formula contains Glycolic Acid and Salicylic Acid that remove buildup for a renewed glow. Here are all the reasons why this serum is a must-have for your vanity  

1. Oil Control: Salicylic Acid in the high-performing serum cuts excess sebum for a balanced microbiome. If you have oily skin, this serum should be on your radar.  

2. Minimizes Pores: Salicylic Acid and Niacinamide in the formula prevent clogged pores, minimizing their appearance.  

3. Treats Whiteheads, Blackheads And Acne: Salicylic Acid and Glycolic Acid remove dirt, debris and dead cells, reducing clogged pores. This helps prevent pesky whiteheads and blackheads. Additionally, Salicylic Acid has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, making it the perfect remedy for active acne.  

4. Ensures A Bright Surface: Glycolic Acid exfoliates your skin’s outermost layer and cues healthy cell turnover. Use the serum to enhance your skin’s glow overnight.  

5. Fades Acne Spots And Blemishes: Salicylic Acid possesses mild astringent properties and reduces acne spots.  

6. Hydration For The Skin: Unlike several AHA BHA serums, our formula is extremely gentle. It doesn’t dry out the dermis, not even in the slightest. Moreover, Hyaluronic Acid in the serum ensures sustained hydration for the skin. 

7. Upholds Barrier Health: This non-drying and non-tingling formula promotes a healthy barrier. Niacinamide in the creamy serum bolsters the lipid barrier and doubles down on hydration by preventing TEWL or transepidermal water loss. 

When Should You Use The AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum?

Now that you are well-versed in the many benefits of the AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum, it’s time to add it to your skincare. A rookie mistake (committed by most seasoned enthusiasts) is using the serum daily. That’s right. Using the AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum thrice a week at night works wonders for your skin. 

Why Should I Use The AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum At Night? 

While there are no hard and fast rules, we recommend using the AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum at night. Here’s why  

1. At night, your lipid barrier (or acid mantle) is more permeable, allowing treatments or serums to percolate deeper with much ease.  

2. Your skin has a circadian rhythm. This means that the skin prioritizes repair and regeneration when you are getting some shut-eye. Foxtale’s AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum helps in this endeavour by shedding dead cells and ensuring healthy turnover.  

3. The topical use of the AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum generates new skin cells. However, continued exposure to the sun can damage these cells, accelerating skin ageing. Therefore, it is recommended that one use the AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum at night. 

Can I Use The AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum Daily? 

No. Although our AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum is gentle and soothing – you shouldn’t reach out for it more than thrice a week. Using the serum daily can lead to over-exfoliation which zaps natural oils from the dermis. It can make your skin dry, and uncomfortably tight and even cause inflammation. 

What Skin Types Need The AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum? 

Another misconception about exfoliating serums is that only people with oily or acne-prone skin need it. This couldn’t be further from the truth. All skin types, be it dry or sensitive, demand regular exfoliation. This process not only helps steer clear of the above skin concerns but also ensures better absorption of your serums (like vitamin c serum) and moisturizers. 

What Is The Best Way To Use The AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum?

Use the following steps to integrate Foxtale’s AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum into your weekly skincare  

1. Start With Cleanser: Use the Acne Control Face Wash to dislodge dirt, grime and debris from the pores. Salicylic Acid at the heart of the formula blots excess oil, shrinks acne and soothes inflammation. Alternatively, if you have dry (or sensitive skin), try the Hydrating Face Wash. It contains Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid) and Red Algae Extract that improve your skin’s water-holding abilities.  

2. Apply The Treatment: After dabbing your face dry, use 2 to 3 pumps of the AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum. Be cautious around sensitive areas like the eyes and mouth. Always use a light hand to avoid any strain on the skin.  

3. Moisturize And Seal: Next, use a suitable moisturizer to help seal in the treatment and hydration. For dry and sensitive skin, we recommend Foxtale’s Hydrating Moisturizer with Ceramides. Alternatively, for oily and combination skin, try the Oil Free Moisturizer.  

4. Sun Protect, Following Morning: Don’t skimp on sunscreen the next morning. A potent sunscreen forms a protective barrier on the skin, preventing photoaging, pigmentation, burns and tanning. 

The skincare industry is plagued with myths and misconceptions – with a new one emerging every second. This haze of never-ending confusion can throw you off your skincare game, but not anymore. We are here to bust these myths for good, to help you redirect efforts for good skin minus the fluff and frill. At the end of this blog, we help you with simple yet effective tips that actually yield results. So, what are you waiting for? Keep reading - 

Common Skincare Myths 

Do you believe that a 10-step routine is the only way to have gorgeous skin or that you don’t need sunscreen on a rainy day? If yes, alas, you have fallen prey to sunscreen myths doing the rounds. In this next section, we help you bust many such common skincare.

1. Natural Ingredients Are Always Better For Your Skin – Myth Vs Fact? 

Hands down a myth. Studies show that natural ingredients aren’t necessarily safer or better for your skin type. Additionally, their results can be inconsistent – often causing irritation and flareups in sensitive skin individuals.

2. You don’t need sunscreen indoors – Myth Vs Fact? 

This is a myth. Unfortunately, your skin is not safe from the harmful rays of the sun indoors. UV rays can penetrate windows, causing burns, pigmentation and other forms of sun damage. Even on an overcast day, UV radiation can pierce through bands of clouds, wreaking havoc on the skin. So, keep a sunscreen with 30 or higher handy at all times.

3. Oily skin doesn’t need a moisturizer – Myth Vs Fact? 

Myth. Myth. Myth. This is the gravest error made even by seasoned skincare enthusiasts. Since oily skincare overproduces sebum, people refrain from moisturizing due to the fear of extra grease, clogged pores and general heaviness. However, a lack of moisturization leads to more oiliness than ever. Without a moisturizing layer, the skin loses water molecules dramatically, resulting in dehydration. This prompts the sebaceous glands into overdrive mode.

4. Anti-Ageing Products Are Only For Older People – Myth Vs Fact? 

Myth for sure. Anti-ageing products are for people wishing to age more gracefully. Using active ingredients like Retinol, Ceramides, and Hyaluronic Acid prevents premature ageing signs like fine lines, wrinkles, crow’s feet and more.

5. Pores Can Open And Close – Myth Vs Fact? 

This is a very common skincare myth. Pores cannot physically open and close. They are openings on your skin that connect to hair follicles – playing an important role in natural moisturization, body temperature regulation, and flushing of toxins. 

How To Identify Skincare Misinformation? 

We mentioned a smattering of skincare myths that often lead us down the wrong path. However, there is no dearth of these misconceptions in the beauty industry. Here are some tips to identify these skincare myths.

1. No scientific backing: If a claim or an offering has no scientific backing, it can be misleading.

2. Lack of transparency: Brands and products that don’t explicitly mention their ingredients can add to misinformation in the space. 

3. All-in-one solution: A skincare formulation can target only specific concerns based on its active ingredients. So, if a product claims to do it all, you know to steer clear of it. 

4. Tall claims: Skincare is a science that requires persistent efforts over a period of time. Avoid products that claim to offer magical solutions. 

Effective Skincare Tips That Actually Work  

Here are some effective tips that guarantee good skin in the long run

1. Cleanse twice a day but steer clear of over washing: Use a gentle, pH-balancing face wash to remove dirt, grime, and other impurities from the pores – twice a day. However, steer cl.ear of over washing which dehydrates your skin, making it feel rough and dry. 

2. Less is more: Simplify your skincare for best results. Use result-oriented formulas that target and address specific underlying concerns. Avoid slathering an assortment of products. 

3. Wear moisturizer and sunscreen without fail: No matter your skin type, wear moisturizer and sunscreen daily. A potent moisturizer seals hydration and treatment into the skin, whereas a sunscreen averts harmful UV rays that cause burns, pigmentation, and ageing. 

Conclusion 

The barrage of skincare misinformation can lead you down the wrong path. To streamline your efforts for great skin, ensure to identify a myth vs a fact.